05/07/2026
Very humbling to have the opportunity to help our future leaders 💛
Today, it is my honor to announce the recipients of the First Annual There is Hope Scholarship. 💚
This scholarship was created in honor of my father, James Verl Lester, a man who believed deeply in hope, second chances, perseverance, and the power of not giving up.
As I read through the submissions this year, I was deeply moved. These were not just applications — they were stories of resilience, grief, courage, healing, faith, determination, and emotional maturity beyond their years. So many of these students have already walked through challenges that would test even the strongest of hearts, and yet they each shared how hope continues to carry them forward.
I can honestly say this was not an easy decision. The depth, sincerity, and personal reflection in these essays made the process both inspiring and incredibly difficult. Our judges had the privilege of reading stories from young people who are not only dreaming about their futures, but who are already demonstrating strength of character and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
Please join me in congratulating the recipients of the First Annual There is Hope Scholarship:
✨ Joshua Rainey
✨ Ryleigh Corter
✨ Cora Garrett
✨ Adrianna Green
✨ Kyla Blair
✨ Dakota Stewart
To each of you: thank you for sharing your heart, your story, and your hope. You reminded us all that even in the hardest seasons of life, hope still matters.
Congratulations to our recipients, and thank you to everyone who applied and to those who continue to support this scholarship. This is only the beginning. 💫
I also want to take a moment to say thank you to those who donated to this scholarship fund. Because of your generosity, we were able to expand our reach and recognize more deserving students. Your support helped turn this scholarship into something even more meaningful, and I am truly grateful. (Farmers Insurance District 12 and Mem Bouc thank you!)